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MTN8 semi-finals: Five standout performers from the 1st-leg action

We take a look at the first-leg top performers.

 

Zuko Mdunyelwa - Mamelodi Sundowns

Man of the Match Mdunyelwa excelled at right back in the absence of Bafana Bafana's Khuliso Mudau, who has been rumoured to be unsettled at the club amid transfer links.

The former Chippa United star managed to restrict attacks from Relebohile Mofokeng and Deon Hotto, forcing the home side to shuffle positions in the second half and to use the opposite wing to find the equalizer.

Omega Mdaka - Stellenbosch

An impressive performance from the left-back ensured that Stellies prevented crosses for in-form Sekhukhune United striker Bradley Grobler and maintained an important clean sheet at home.

The Man of the Match made ten clearances and five interceptions during the first leg encounter whilst also initiating numerous attacks into the opposition half from the left-back position.

More importantly, Mdaka looks to have fitted perfectly into the shoes of former captain Fawaaz Basadien, who recently joined Sundowns.

Kamogelo Sebelebele - Orlando Pirates

The former TS Galaxy winger caused problems down the right wing with this pace allowing him to get behind the left-backs and attack the Mamelodi Sundowns goal.

He particularly got the better of Divine Lunga in the second half, forcing a save from Ronwen Williams in the 79th minute before cutting in again from the right to slot past the Bafana Bafana skipper for an 87th minute equalizer. 

Mbekezeli Mbokazi - Orlando Pirates

Orlando Pirates stand in captain delivered another mature performance in the heart of Bucs defense, whilst also launching the long-range pass that provided the assist for Selebelebe.

He won the majority of his duels during the match and made the most clearances (9) for AmaBhakaniya during the match.

Arthur Sales - Mamelodi Sundowns

The Brazilian has started the season in top form and has thrived on the wing for Masandawana. He constantly threatened the Orlando Pirates defence with his close control and ability to find small spaces to provide goalscoring chances for Iqraam Rayners and Tashreeq Matthews.

He almost doubled Downs' lead in the half hour mark after dribbling through a cluster of players before forcing Sipho Chaine to make an excellent low save. 

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